Energy and Climate Change Minister Greg Barker has welcomed the launch of the world’s largest solar bridge at London Blackfriars.

Speaking at the launch reception, the Minister said:“Blackfriars solar bridge is an architectural gem, a truly iconic installation and a fantastic addition to the skyline of the greatest city in the World. I congratulate everyone involved in making it happen.”

Mr Barker also repeated his recent call for a boost to the roll-out of “mid-size” roof-top solar in 2014 and promised early government action to help to deliver that.

Solarcentury CEO, Frans van den Heuvel commented: “The Minister’s enthusiasm for the role of solar in our built environment is obvious, so his personal endorsement of Blackfriars solar bridge is very much appreciated by all of the team that worked on the project. Solarcentury has a very long track-record of delivering challenging and innovative urban solar solutions. The success of Blackfriars solar bridge should help us to secure many more infrastructure projects both in the UK and around the world.”

The bridge has 4,400 photovoltaic panels covering the roof of the station and produces enough energy to make almost 80,000 cups of tea a day. In fact, London’s largest array provides up to half of the station’s energy, reducing its CO2 emissions by an estimated 511 tonnes per year – equivalent to 89,000 (average) car journeys.